Let's talk about those pesky plants that sprout up in your yard where they're least desired.  Weeds are commonly defined simply as plants in the wrong place.

With our moist, subtropical climate, weeds can be challenging to manage.  Palm Beach County's Cooperative Extension Service Environmental Horticulture Program in partnership with the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) provides the most current, research-backed information to help meet the needs of residents and businesses. 

Our local horticulture experts tell us that your approach to controlling weeds should start with scouting your property and identify the types of weeds to determine what management methods will work best.  For instance, some weeds found in our area like the dollar weed are aquatic, indicating an area receiving too much water.  "Florida Snow" which is seen covering many lawns in the county and contains small white flowers, can indicate dry conditions.  Some weeds are spread by birds, yet others are found in compacted soils.  There's a lot to consider, but if you can get a handle on controlling weeds, you won't have to use as many chemicals to fight them.

All weeds are easier to control when small and prior to flowering.  Once they flower, the seeds can easily spread.  Some steps you can take to prevent weed growth include:

• Purchase garden soil that is formulated for beds and is likely to contain little to no weed seed
• Edge around your beds
• Install edgers, pavers and garden walls
• Clean mowers and tools
• Check the nursery stock that you purchase and dispose of any weed material
  

To control weed growth in your lawn, experts recommend that you mow at the higher level, since this will create shade and keep some weeds from germinating.  Too little or too much water or fertilizer can also encourage weed growth.

As you know, mulch is a popular method for weed control.  The best type is coarse, textured mulch, two inches thick, in pine or hardwood bark.  Cypress mulch is not recommended because it is mostly harvested from natural areas and wetlands.  Additionally, rubber mulch is also not recommended, because it is made from recycled tires that can leach heavy metals and other chemicals into soil, aquifers and storm water run-off.  Rubber mulch also absorbs heat, does not decompose or add organic matter, and is a potential fire hazard.

Weed control is also very important to the county in maintaining our natural areas.  Palm Beach County uses and recommends an integrated pest management approach that reduces the need for chemical applications.  This includes a variety of practices such as proper selection and maintenance of landscape plants, use of pest resistant plants, and biological controls.  When chemicals are required, the products are carefully selected, use is minimized, and label instructions are strictly followed to reduce the risk of exposure to people, animals and the environment.

Much has been reported about the use of Roundup, the most common herbicide whose key ingredient is glyphosate.  The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is studying the chemical and may outline new guidelines or restrictions on its use.  If you decide to use herbicides, I cannot over-emphasize the caution that you must carefully read the label for information on safety, environmental factors, the product and use. 

Palm Beach County is committed to safety and is monitoring the research and litigation linked to glyphosate products closely to ensure full compliance with applicable laws and regulations.  Our staff is researching alternative products for weed control and will comply with any new regulations or recommended practices on glyphosate use that may come from the EPA or any other regulatory body.

There is a lot more information you can access from the Cooperative Extension Service to help you maintain a healthy and beautiful yard and garden.  If you would like further details on different methods of preventing or eliminating weeds, or if you have other questions about what types of fertilizer to use, what species are the most drought tolerant, or the best watering practices, you can call the Master Gardener Hotline at (561) 233-1750.  Online you can access a wealth of information at http://discover.pbcgov.org/coextension/horticulture. 

Your input on areas of concern is very helpful.  As always, please contact me if I can be of assistance at (561) 355-2201, or by email at hvaleche@pbcgov.org.